IT workers clocking excessive hours

IT staff are putting in excessive hours including late nights and weekends, to meet project deadlines, according to a survey.

The online survey, carried out by recruitment firm Candle ICT, found 43 percent of respondents said that they were working excessive hours to complete projects and meet deadlines, and 27 percent of respondents worked overtime on a regular basis.

In a statement about the survey, Candle ICT argued that downsizing of IT departments and companies over the past couple of years had led to increasing pressure on remaining IT staff.

"With the advancement of mobile technologies facilitating work at home or on the move, and requirements to work through different timezones, IT employees more than most are feeling the pressure of extended working hours," it stated.

Candle Australia's Emma Stonham said many of Australia's IT professionals are working longer hours to advance their careers.

"However, many simply don't feel like they can say no in a deadline-driven, high-pressured environment," Stonham said.

"These changes in work culture and attitude will continue to evolve. Companies need to look at ways to effectively address these changes in order to retain their top talent."